Man allegedly tries to lure Oroville girl into van after school

OROVILLE &GT;&GT; After a man allegedly tried to lure a young girl into a car this week, law enforcement and school officials are warning parents to take precautions with their children.

On Monday, an 11-year-old girl was walking home from her school bus stop near Dunstone Drive and Foothill Boulevard when she was approached by an older-style white van with tinted windows, according to a Butte County Sheriff's Office press release. The driver asked if she wanted a ride, and she said no and tried to continue walking, but the driver repeatedly moved the van forward in what seemed like an attempt to block the girl from crossing the street.

The girl was able to run around the van and get home safely.

The Butte County Sheriff's Office is actively investigating the incident and anyone with information is asked to contact the investigation unit at 538-7671.

The driver of the van was described as a Hispanic male adult, with a scruffy beard and wearing a tan cowboy-style hat with a red and white bandana around his neck.

The Sheriff's Office also notified Oroville-area schools and encouraged the incident be mentioned to students and families. It also offered several safety reminders for the start of the school year:

• Don't talk to strangers, even if they look safe.

• Never get into a car with a stranger.

• Be aware of your surroundings.

• There is safety in numbers, so it's best to walk to or from school with a friend or sibling..